Kirk: Pass A Clean DHS Funding Bill Without Immigration Riders [AUDIO]

John Gregory -- Illinois Radio Network

Illinois’ U.S. Senators both support passing a “clean” funding bill for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security—one which doesn’t try to block President Obama’s actions on immigration.

Congress has until Friday to agree on funding legislation for the department, or else tens of thousands of workers would be furloughed, while most would have to work without pay. U.S. Sen. Mark Kirk (R-Ill.) says it’s up to Republicans to propose a bill without any attempt to block President Obama’s executive orders on immigration.

“The burden of the majority is the burden of governing,” Kirk said. “Shutdowns are not responsible. We should not shutdown the government.”

U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) thinks there’s a good chance of reaching a deal this week.

“I think it’s stronger,” Durbin said. “I think the Republicans realize what a terrible mistake they’ve made. To jeopardize the appropriation for the agency that’s supposed to protect us from terrorism? There’s no excuse for that.”

The department is currently operating on a short-term appropriation approved in December.